Black Leadership in Action: BLF Fellows Reflect on Black History Month

February 27, 2025

In honor of Black History Month, the Buckeye Leadership Fellows Program is proud to highlight four outstanding Fellows who exemplify leadership, resilience, and dedication to uplifting their communities. Through their experiences and insights, these leaders share how they contribute to Black excellence on campus, reflect on the Black figures who inspire them, and discuss how BLF has shaped their perspectives on leadership.

Leading by Example and Creating Space for Representation

For Mitchell Arthur (BLF 27, Accounting, Columbus, OH), leadership is about inspiring the next generation. “I strive to uplift Black communities by leading by example. I want my life and actions to inspire aspiring Black scholars to pursue careers in any field they desire, especially those where society has historically placed barriers or stigmas on people of color,” he shares.

Similarly, Gabriella Gilmore (BLF 26, Environmental Engineering, Cincinnati, OH) emphasizes the importance of access and representation. “It is important to me that, no matter the space I am in, I ensure everyone feels heard and valued. By carrying that into my leadership, I work to make sure Black voices are heard by someone that looks like them, while creating and supporting spaces on campus to allow for our community to thrive!”

As a leader in legal advocacy, Yeme Oljira (BLF 26, Political Science & Economics, Reynoldsburg, OH) is working to bridge the gap between Black students and civic engagement. “As the chair of Buckeye Engagement and Infinity’s Law and Society committee, I work to create spaces for civic engagement and legal literacy, ensuring Black students have the tools to navigate and influence policy. Through the Pre-Law Scholars Program, I strive to support Black students pursuing legal careers by connecting them with resources and mentorship.”

Inspiration from Black Leaders Who Paved the Way

Each Fellow draws motivation from a Black leader whose legacy has shaped their own journey.

For Mitchell, Alphonso Davies, the professional soccer player who overcame immense adversity, is a symbol of perseverance. “Born in a refugee camp in Ghana, his story proves that one’s origins do not define the future they can achieve. His charitable work and dedication to giving back to the community that supported him inspires me to strive for excellence and give back to the community that provided me with all the resources to get me where I am today.”

Gabriella looks to Quinta Brunson, whose work highlights both the struggles and triumphs of Black communities. “Her efforts in putting together Abbott Elementary, which is hilarious and demonstrates the frustrations and strife that predominantly Black communities and public education systems face today, is meaningful to me due to my aunt’s experiences as a public school educator for 20 years.”

For Kyan Dyar (BLF 27, Civil Engineering, Gahanna, OH), Vice President Kamala Harris serves as a powerful role model. “Her leadership emphasized unity and progress for all communities. Her resilience and commitment to justice have shaped my perspective on community leadership, showing me the power of representation and the importance of breaking barriers to create meaningful change.”

Yeme finds strength in Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress. “Her fearless leadership and dedication to breaking barriers showed the power of unapologetic advocacy and representation. Her legacy has shaped my view on leadership by highlighting the importance of using my voice to challenge injustices, support my community, and create opportunities for others.”

The BLF Experience: Defining Black Leadership

Each of these Fellows credits BLF with helping them develop a stronger sense of identity and purpose as Black leaders.

Mitchell reflects on the challenges of being a person of color in America and how BLF has empowered him to overcome them. “As a person of color in America, our voices and achievements are often overlooked or diminished compared to those of other ethnicities. Being a part of BLF has taught me to overcome the challenges that arise because of the color of my skin. By rising above these obstacles, I refuse to let my voice or individuality be undermined. This not only embodies Black excellence but also exemplifies Black leadership.”

For Gabriella, BLF has reinforced the power of resilience and individualism. “My experiences within BLF have taught me to continue standing for my beliefs, my journey, and my dreams even if I am standing alone. In times where individualism is questioned and scrutinized, my leadership studios and experiences within the cohort have pushed me to continue working for greatness and my legacy, no matter the opinions of others.”

Kyan emphasizes the importance of curiosity and connection. “Being part of such a diverse cohort has shown me the power of embracing different perspectives while staying true to my own identity. As Fellows, we are encouraged to be curious, and that curiosity fosters deeper connections and mutual understanding. This experience has reinforced that leadership as a Black individual in America means building bridges, finding common ground, and uplifting others while navigating spaces that may not always reflect our own experiences.”

For Yeme, BLF has opened doors to deeper advocacy and inclusivity. “Being part of BLF has opened my eyes to what it means to lead as a Black individual in America. Working closely with a diverse group of peers, alumni, and community leaders has shown me how crucial representation and inclusivity are in leadership roles. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to advocating for equity and creating opportunities for marginalized communities.”

Honoring Black Leadership Beyond February

While Black History Month serves as a time for reflection and celebration, these Fellows emphasize that honoring Black excellence is a year-round commitment. As Kyan puts it, “Black History Month is a time for reflection and appreciation, but this recognition should extend beyond February and into our daily lives. By embracing my identity with pride, I hope to create a space where others feel empowered to do the same, fostering a culture of confidence, unity, and continuous celebration of Black excellence.”

These Buckeye Leadership Fellows continue to lead by example, shaping their communities, industries, and the future of Black leadership. Their stories remind us that leadership is not just about individual success, but about uplifting others, challenging norms, and creating lasting impact.